The Way We Wore: Black Style Then by Michael McCollom, published by Glitterati Incorporated, http://glitteratiincorporated.com |
Author: Michael McCollom |
McCollom's book chronicles African-American fashion and style from the 1940s to more recent times, in a collection of photographs that is a visual feast for the eyes. The book is filled with men, women, and children who are dressed to the nines and the pages are filled with great style moments. There are photographs of people such as Oprah Winfrey, Iman, Naomi Campbell, Tyra Banks, and James Baldwin, among many others, including the author's family and many friends.
1980, New York City. Angelo Ellerbee, Publicist |
1950, Hal Frederick, Actor |
1960s, Riverside Park, NewJersey. Tom Keetz, Account Executive |
1969, New York City. Veronica Jones, Boutique Owner |
The Way We Wore: Black Style Then beautifully chronicles the style contributions of African-Americans and how that style has influenced international fashion culture. There are numerous styles presented in terms of hair, accessories, and clothes of virtually every form. There are servicemen in their uniforms and women in fabulous gowns presented alongside those dressed in their Sunday best or in their prom finery. The reader is also shown people who are just in their regular clothes, which are anything but regular because they are expressing a truly individual style. As I looked at all of these beautiful photographs I couldn't help but think about my own collection of family photographs through the decades. I was reminded of how we're all telling a story of our lives through the pictures that we take and the style that we express to the world. Enjoying this book from cover to cover was a pure joy!
Throughout the book there are descriptions to accompany the various photographs along with quotes from different people of note. The quotes beautifully embellish the pages of the book and add yet another layer of expression.
May 1960, New York City. Arlene Hawkins, Owner of Arlene Hawkins Cosmetics |
Michael McCollom has given us a chance to come along with him on this journey through African-American style and culture as he presents a sense of heritage and history with his book. We are transported from earlier in the 20th century into the era of hip hop style influences in the latter part of the century. The innovative African-American style is celebrated throughout this time in history in all of its full glory.
1968, New York City. Renee Hunter, Entrepreneur |
The Way We Wore: Black Style Then can be purchased here.
*Disclosure: I was sent a copy of this book for review. All opinions are mine.